20
October
2024

Space Cities Network launches global collaboration

Four of Earth’s leading business events cities to collaborate in space

Four space-focused cities from across the globe have come together to form an international network focused on the growth of aeronautics, space, and astronomy.
The Network’s launch was announced at the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Congress in Abu Dhabi this week.

The first four cities include:
Lausanne Montreux Congress – Lausanne, Switzerland (Europe)
ChristchurchNZ Business Events – Christchurch, New Zealand (Oceania)
Houston First Corporation – Houston, United States of America (North America)
Seoul Tourism Organization – Seoul, South Korea (Asia).

This new international alliance has been designed to increase collaboration across the space sector encompassing universities, research centers, government agencies, industry and corporations. Knowledge sharing among public and private sectors is essential for the success of current and future projects, fostering a thriving Space community.

Space Cities Network Co-Chair, Gerald Howard from Lausanne Montreux Congress, Switzerland said the group is excited to be collaborating and sharing knowledge across their regions for the next generation of space exploration.

“Space is the mirror of humanity and of our community – a quest for tomorrow. A world of exploration and innovation impacting a future that needs support and guidance. Our community, working collectively with Space experts can be one of the keystones of it, and the Space Cities Network is there to help facilitate that” Gerald Howard says.

Space innovation, technology and exploration has become a truly collective endeavor. International space projects like Artemis offer real examples. And the forecast of the space economy just reinforces it: $1.8 trillion by 2035.

“Houston is proud to join this international network, leveraging our rich history in space exploration to drive innovation and collaboration across the global space sector,” said Michael Heckman, President and CEO of Houston First Corporation. “As a hub for cutting-edge research and industry, we are committed to fostering partnerships that will propel the future of aeronautics and space.”

The Space Cities Network will be made up of a select community of highly regarded, connected and influential people who are locally and/or internationally recognized in their field of expertise.

These people will be supported by destination marketing organizations from the four participating cities, which are ready to increase and reinforce their space communities with new bids and attract more international space conferences and events to their respective destinations.

Claire Hector-Taylor from ChristchurchNZ Business Events and fellow Co-Chair, says “Cities will play an integral, legacy role as hubs for events supporting the space community, hosting conferences, summits, and meetings that bring together industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers.”

Jin Hyeok Park, Director of Seoul Convention Bureau says “Seoul is thrilled to be part of the Space Cities Network, as it offers great potential for expanding business event opportunities in the space industry. By collaborating with leading cities globally, we aim to strengthen international connections and drive innovation. We’re eager to leverage this network to attract more space-related events and conferences.”